Chapter 994: Legacy Awakening (3)

Throughout most of the realm, no pulse was ever misread—only her prescriptions still left much to be desired. Physician Du pointed out every shortcoming in her medicinal formulations, and she benefited greatly from his corrections.

That afternoon, the clinic had few patients. Physician Du, taking a moment to rest, looked at Mo Yan with satisfaction and said, “Your talent in medicine exceeds what I expected. In just one year, you’ve reached this level. It’s clear you study diligently, and that pleases me.”

Mo Yan felt a bit embarrassed and replied modestly, “It’s thanks to my master’s excellent teaching. Otherwise, I’d be lucky just to identify all the herbs.”

Her words were not mere flattery. Ever since Physician Du took her on as an apprentice, he had shared everything he knew. With the aid of the spatial time booster that gave her plenty of time to study medicine—and with Xue Tuanzi helping along the way—she had reached this level of proficiency in one year.

Pleased with her humility, Physician Du retrieved a thin book from his drawer and handed it to her, “It’s good that you can keep pride at bay. Once you master this book on human acupoints, I will pass on the ‘Du Family’s Nine Needles’ to you.”

Du Family’s Nine Needles?

Mo Yan was startled. Having studied under her master for so long, she well knew that her master’s true strength lay not just in his overall medical skills but in the acupuncture technique passed down for hundreds of years—the Du Family’s Nine Needles.

Although the Du Family’s Nine Needles do not reach the miraculous levels of reassembling dead flesh and bones, they can extend the life of someone on the brink. For example, if a person’s major artery were severed, without prompt bleeding control and treatment, death from blood loss would soon follow.

In this era, with medicine and equipment far less advanced than in the past, if a major artery were cut, ordinary methods—even the best wound remedies—could not stop the gushing blood, leaving one to watch helplessly until life ebbs away. But if someone skilled in the Du Family’s Nine Needles were present, using acupuncture to arrest the bleeding before treating the wound might save a life.

Aside from some itinerant physicians with inferior skills, nearly every physician at a clinic could manage acupuncture, though their abilities varied.

The Du Family’s Nine Needles had been gradually refined by several generations of her master’s ancestors. It might not be unbeatable in the world of acupuncture, but within the capital, no one could match it.

Mo Yan had, in private, compared the Du Family’s Nine Needles to a “ghost physician’s” acupuncture technique and thought the latter might be stronger—an opinion that had earned her a good bout of teasing from Xue Tuanzi.

That was when she realized her master was a true, secret sage of the medical world. In his early years, due to his extraordinary skills, he had suffered great misfortunes, leading to the collapse of his family. Ever since, he had withdrawn from the world and opened a modest clinic in the capital, treating common ailments. In decades, he had never once employed the Du Family’s Nine Needles, so the technique had gradually become a legend in the world of medicine.

Mo Yan knew that her master was preparing her as his true heir. Without hesitation, she accepted the medical book on acupoints and said solemnly, “Master, please rest assured. I will study diligently, and one day, I will bring the Du Family’s Nine Needles to glory.”

“Very good, very good!” Physician Du exclaimed, repeating “good” three times. His satisfaction with his only apprentice grew as he said, “I believe you can do it. However, let me remind you—as caring as a physician should be, the world is full of treacherous hearts. When you treat and save lives, you must also remain vigilant.”

He meant not to be like him—blinded by compassion and saving a backstabbing scoundrel only to end up struggling in hardship for the rest of your life.

(End of Chapter)

 Chapter 993: Legacy Awakening (2)

Physician Du also couldn’t cure Cui Ping’an’s troubled heart; at best he prescribed a few gentle tonics with little side effects to keep his body from collapsing too quickly. Otherwise, the day Cui Ping’an truly woke up, his body would already be ruined.

Learning that Cui Ping’an, as usual, slept most of the time and only woke briefly without speaking, Mo Yan couldn’t say that she already had a cure. She could only offer a few consoling words while waiting for an opportunity for Xue Tuanzi to act.

Since Xue Tuanzi couldn’t leave its spatial realm, it had to work through its master, Mo Yan, to cast its spell on Cui Ping’an. Similar to the "Entering Dream" technique, this method relies on psychological suggestion during Cui Ping’an’s sleep; however, it washes away the painful memories he refused to face.

Afraid that without those painful memories as a warning Cui Ping’an might repeat the mistakes of his past life, Xue Tuanzi would also cast the dream spell to remind him of the severe consequences if he were to marry that cousin. As long as Cui Ping’an wavered even slightly, the dream would continually warn him: as long as he wasn’t foolish, he wouldn’t make the wrong decision and repeat the tragedy of his former life.

After Physician Du finished taking Cui Ping’an’s pulse and speaking with the Cui women, Mo Yan sat by his bedside. With her right hand resting on Cui Ping’an’s left wrist, she closed her eyes, pretending to read his pulse.

At the moment her hand touched Cui Ping’an’s wrist, Xue Tuanzi began to work its magic in the space, using Mo Yan’s hand as a conduit to slowly wash away those unbearable memories.

Since the spell was cast on only one person, it took much less time than the "Entering Dream" technique previously used on the entire Liuyang Village. By then, Physician Du hadn’t even finished explaining to Old Madam Cui before the spell was completed.

Mo Yan withdrew her hand and waited for a moment. Seeing that Cui Ping’an still hadn’t awakened, she anxiously asked Xue Tuanzi, “Why hasn’t he woken up yet? Did it fail?”

Xue Tuanzi rolled its eyes and retorted, “When you first entered this world and accepted your memories, weren’t you nearly fainting? This fellow’s memory is missing a part and he’s been ill for so long—if he wakes up tonight, it means his will is strong.”

Irritated by the disdain, Mo Yan gritted her teeth but didn’t bother to argue about Xue Tuanzi’s attitude.

Having done what needed to be done, Mo Yan didn’t wish to stay longer at the Cui residence. Once Physician Du finished his report, the two of them excused themselves from Old Madam Cui.

Seeing that Old Madam Cui, in just a few short days, seemed to have aged over ten years, Mo Yan couldn’t help but console her, “Old Madam, Cui Ping’an will get better soon. If he wakes up to see how much you worry, he’ll feel so guilty. You must take care of yourself.”

“Thank you for your kind words, County Princess,” Old Madam Cui replied with a weary smile, her face even more lined with age.

Once, Old Madam Cui might have waited for her grandson to wake up with hope; but after several days, that hope was growing dim. She had already prepared for the possibility that her grandson might never truly wake, planning his future life so that at least after her departure, he wouldn’t suffer too much.

Knowing that no amount of comforting words would lift Old Madam Cui’s spirits while Cui Ping’an remained unconscious, Mo Yan simply nodded and said no more.

After leaving the Cui residence, Mo Yan returned to Du’s Medical Hall with Physician Du.

Without resting, Physician Du sat at his desk attending to incoming patients. After finishing his own pulse readings, he silently let Mo Yan examine the patients again.

Mo Yan knew her master was testing her; she carefully took each pulse, confidently announcing her diagnostic results when sure, and cautiously consulted her master on difficult cases.

(End of Chapter)

 Chapter 992: Legacy Awakening (1)

After discovering the root of Cui Ping’an’s troubles, Mo Yan found him just as difficult as ever. Cui Ping’an refused to speak with anyone outside, hiding away in his own world of remorse and ignoring everyone’s words.

Mo Yan wasn’t a psychologist and didn’t know how one might treat someone with such a mental block. Perhaps she could find a way to help him move on from his past life, but his current state couldn’t wait. Fortunately, with Xue Tuanzi around, things became easier.

“Keep wasting time like this and the fellow’s in real danger. Since you have a solution, go ahead and help him out—consider it some good karma for yourself,” Mo Yan said, patting Xue Tuanzi.

Xue Tuanzi, twisting its snail-like eyes in glee, replied boastfully, “I was ready to act long ago, but you insisted on teaching that kid a lesson! His future in this life is uncertain. Right now he’s facing his great trial—if he overcomes it, fine; if not, he’ll have to go see the King of Hell again.”

Mo Yan broke out in cold sweat and poked Xue Tuanzi’s belly, “It’s that serious? Why didn’t you say so earlier?”

“Hmph, I knew you’d do whatever it takes to save him, so why rush? It’s not too late now!” Xue Tuanzi widened its eyes in feigned innocence. In truth, it just wanted Mo Yan to hurry up so it could get back at her for her occasional “mistreatment.”

Understanding each other perfectly, Mo Yan muttered, “You’re so petty,” and then playfully squeezed it into a neat, snow-white ball.

With a plan to treat Cui Ping’an in hand, Mo Yan’s mood brightened. Looking at Xue Tuanzi—something she could easily mold—she suddenly asked, “What’s your true form? Our space is almost at level eight now, and if our plans go smoothly, reaching level ten won’t be hard. Maybe in just a few years you can fully transform.”

Xue Tuanzi proudly puffed its belly and said, “We spirit artifacts don’t have a fixed shape. We can become whatever we like, but once transformed, it can’t be changed. For convenience when moving around, most of us take on a human form. I’ll transform into a human too.”

Transforming into human form means you can enjoy worldly delicacies, see all the sights, and even charm the ladies… There are so many benefits compared to being stuck as a cat or dog, which would be foolish.

This little thought caught Mo Yan’s attention, and she groaned, “Then you’d better transform into a girl!” She was really afraid that if it became a man, with its lecherous nature it’d end up causing chaos among women.

“No way—I must become a man!” Xue Tuanzi immediately refused. Seeing Mo Yan shoot it a fierce glare, it pleaded pitifully, “Yan Yan, you see, trapped in this tiny space for tens of thousands—or even over a hundred thousand years—I’ve dreamed of becoming human and walking the human world! But you know how many restrictions there are on women in this world; becoming a man is the only way to be truly free, dashingly so, and even to protect you. Don’t worry, even if I become a man, I won’t go wild.”

“That won’t do either. You shameless fellow—don’t think I don’t know that every time I bathe you’re peeking!” Though Mo Yan felt sorry for Xue Tuanzi being trapped, she didn’t trust its promises one bit. This creature already had a lecherous air about it; if it turned into a man, who knows how many women it would trouble.

Still, she knew it was hard to change its mind, so she left the matter for now. When that day comes, she will do her best to restrain it so it doesn’t cause mischief.

…

The next day, Mo Yan came once again to the Cui residence with her medicine box. This time, she deliberately brought along Physician Du and disguised herself before quietly entering through a side door, without attracting any attention.

(End of Chapter)

 Chapter 991: Confrontation (4)

County Princess Fuyun had clearly come after Mo Yan. In front of her, Mo Yan quickly revealed everything and instantly lost interest. Not even bothering to comfort Old Madam Cui, she left in a grand procession with her maids and nursemaids, just as she had arrived.

Only after the group had gone far did Mo Yan finally breathe a long sigh of relief. She raised her hand to wipe her forehead, but finding no sweat there, she lowered it again.

Old Madam Cui, also relieved, looked at Mo Yan apologetically and said, “It was my poor judgment that nearly got you into trouble, County Princess.”

Mo Yan’s performance in front of the princess clearly showed that she knew something, so Old Madam Cui had nothing to hide and directly expressed her apologies.

Mo Yan shook her head and smiled, “No one could have expected Your Highness to show up suddenly. How could Madam be to blame?” In saying this, she indirectly admitted that she was aware of the matters between County Princess Fuyun and the Cui family.

These matters were hardly secret—just a little inquiry would reveal them. Thus, Old Madam Cui didn’t ask how Mo Yan found out, only expressing her relief: “Luckily, the County Princess was perceptive enough that Her Highness never suspected anything. Otherwise, it would have been my fault.”

Embarrassed by this, Mo Yan explained, “After leaving Young Master Cui behind, I was worried it might cause trouble, so I did some asking. If I offended in any way, Madam, please forgive me.”

Old Madam Cui understood completely and smiled, “These things were never hidden; there is nothing to be offended about. I must also thank the County Princess for taking in Xiao Qi.”

Being willing to risk offending County Princess Fuyun to keep Xiao Qi showed the kindness and integrity of this County Princess—a kindness Old Madam Cui would remember and repay when the opportunity arose.

After the interruption by County Princess Fuyun, Mo Yan no longer felt like staying at the Cui residence. Before leaving, she took Cui Ping’an’s pulse once again and saw that his high fever had completely subsided. Judging that he would wake by evening, she left two small bottles of spiritual spring water, gave the Cui women some instructions, and then departed in the Cui family’s carriage, with Cui Qingrou seeing her off.

Mo Yan had the coachman first take her to Du’s Medical Hall to speak with Physician Du, and only after confirming that even if County Princess Fuyun sent people to inquire there would be no slip-up did she feel at ease enough to return to Liuyang Village.

That evening, as Mo Yan had predicted, Cui Ping’an indeed woke up, though his spirits were low. He stared blankly at the canopy, barely uttering a word. By midnight, his fever flared again. Cui Qingrou gave him a small bottle of the spiritual spring water Mo Yan had left, and the fever gradually abated.

Over the next few days, Cui Ping’an no longer developed a fever but remained drowsy. Out of twelve hours in a day, he slept for eleven, suffering from recurring nightmares and murmuring in his sleep. Visible weight loss and increasing weakness made him liable to collapse at the slightest breeze.

Old Madam Cui and Cui Qingrou were frantic. Every time they asked what troubled him, he refused to speak—even when Old Madam Cui declared before him that she would not interfere with his marriage and that he should marry whoever he pleased, he still remained silent, seemingly trapped in the tragic memories of his past life with no escape.

Having tried every possible remedy, the Cui women could not break through Cui Ping’an’s inner barrier. In desperation, they sent someone to the Mo household to ask Mo Yan for help.

Mo Yan did not mind the inconvenience and made another trip to the Cui residence. However, when she arrived, Cui Ping’an was sound asleep. Forcing him awake, she found him like a soulless puppet—no matter how much she spoke, he offered not a single response.

Seeing him in such a half-alive state made Mo Yan both angry and deeply sympathetic. What kind of pain had he endured to turn a once lively and cheerful young man into someone who, even after rebirth, could not face his past calmly?

Originally, she had planned to wait until Cui Ping’an was fully awake so he could explain it himself and she might help him untie the knot in his heart. Now that he was awake yet unresponsive like a lifeless doll, Mo Yan had no choice but to turn to Xue Tuanzi, fearing that if she didn’t think of a solution soon, Cui Ping’an might wear himself out to death.

“Hmph, I told you before and you wouldn’t listen. Now you’re making me repeat myself—women are such a trouble!” Xue Tuanzi muttered as it drifted slowly over from nearby.

Mo Yan glared and rubbed its belly, “I told you to speak up—no more nonsense.”

“Alright, alright, I’ll speak!” Xue Tuanzi quickly recounted all the misfortunes Cui Ping’an had suffered in his previous life. At the end, it sighed and said, “...That boy was indeed pitiful. The girl he loved was killed, and his cousin had her life ruined by him, only to eventually die miserably at the hands of a scumbag. He couldn’t bear the thought of confining himself to a tiny, suffocating world—living every day with overwhelming loss and regret. Tsk tsk, it’s tragic enough, yet County Princess Fuyun still wouldn’t let him off. After Old Madam Cui died, she locked him away in a room devoid of sunlight—making him not only suffer hunger day after day but also endure the daily retelling of those tragic events by her servants. The fact that this situation hasn’t driven him mad shows just how strong he is inside...”

Mo Yan listened in silence for a long while, rendered speechless. Although she had suspected Cui Ping’an’s previous life was filled with misery, she never imagined that the once pure and cheerful young man would eventually perish in such loneliness, regret, and despair.

No wonder—no wonder that even after rebirth, he would choose to shut himself off rather than face it all again.

(End of Chapter)

 Chapter 990: Confrontation (3)

County Princess Fuyun had not expected that on the matter Mo Yan had deliberately concealed, her words would seem so sincere that she couldn’t help but lend them some credence. “To be conferred the title of County Princess by your imperial elder brother—you truly are extraordinary! Not only did you produce high-yield rice to benefit the people, but you also practice medicine. If your master can confidently send you here, your medical skills must rival, if not equal, those of the imperial physicians at the Imperial Medical Office. Now tell me, what exactly is Ping’an’s condition?”

Though her words appeared to heap praise upon Mo Yan, they were nothing more than a trap. The physicians of the Imperial Medical Office had all been carefully selected through numerous trials, and even if they were not the very best in the land, they far surpassed the abilities of most civilian doctors. Should County Princess Fuyun’s words spread, Mo Yan would be in serious trouble.

Mo Yan maintained a calm expression and replied candidly, “Your Highness, you flatter me. I have been practicing medicine for less than a year and have only learned how to take pulses. I haven’t even progressed to prescribing medications independently. How could I possibly contend with the imperial physicians in skill?”

By openly admitting her inexperience, Mo Yan deftly deflected the princess’s calculated snare. She hadn’t anticipated that County Princess Fuyun’s mind was so narrow; just by coming to treat Cui Ping’an in the Cui residence—even without any personal enmity—she managed to set such an elaborate trap. Her heart went out even more to Cui Ping’an.

County Princess Fuyun had not expected Mo Yan to admit in front of Old Madam Cui and the other Cui family women that her skills were lacking. If she were indeed so unskilled yet still ventured out to treat patients, wouldn’t that risk making a hash of the treatment and incur the wrath of the Cui family? Then again, she recalled that this young woman was not only a County Princess but also destined to have an exceptionally promising husband. Such recklessness could very well embolden her.

As though perceiving Fuyun’s thoughts, Mo Yan gave a sly smile. She deliberately restrained herself, although a trace of arrogance still shone in her eyes. “Originally, my master intended for another physician to come, but Hejia was so curious about Young Master Cui’s condition that he took over the matter. I only ask that neither the princess nor Old Madam Cui hold my inexperience against me.”

Being young and only recently having begun her study of medicine, Mo Yan was already presumed by County Princess Fuyun to be lacking in skill. Now, with every word she uttered, she seemingly dispelled any pretense of deceit. Fuyun truly believed Mo Yan wouldn’t dare lie before her. In her mind, that simply confirmed her suspicions: someone so young without a proper upbringing—who rose suddenly from a lowly farmer’s daughter to a County Princess and secured an ideal husband—had naturally become haughty.

Convinced by these words, County Princess Fuyun finally relaxed and feigned sincerity as she said, “If your master is willing to relent, then he clearly trusts you. There is no need for you to belittle yourself.”

Playing along to the very end, Mo Yan feigned being astonished by the princess’s compliment, then forced a modest expression. “Your Highness is too kind. Compared to my master, I am far from reaching his level.”

This act not only deceived County Princess Fuyun but also aroused suspicion in Old Madam Cui. Only Cui Qingrou discreetly dabbed her face with a handkerchief, anxious that her barely concealed smile might be noticed by the princess.

Inside the spatial compartment, Xue Tuanzi rolled on the floor laughing. In Mo Yan’s consciousness, he remarked, “Yan Yan, I never imagined you had a flair for acting. In your past life, if you had entered that so-called entertainment circle, your acting could have earned you a little golden statue.”

For an instant, Mo Yan’s expression stiffened before she answered smugly, “Isn’t it because I was forced into this? But I didn’t expect my acting skills to be so superb—I even managed to fool myself, haha!”

“Hmph, you start showing off as soon as you get a little praise. If you can’t even handle this old woman, then both your lives have been a waste.”

Mo Yan felt a surge of irritation, itching to put Xue Tuanzi in her place immediately. However, in the presence of County Princess Fuyun, she had no choice but to control herself so as not to reveal any slip-ups.

(End of Chapter)

 Chapter 989: Confrontation (2)

“So that’s how it is. Then it seems I rejoiced too soon. This child truly is pitiful.” County Princess Fuyun appeared to believe the explanation, but her eyes grew colder and sharper.

Old Madam Cui acted as if she didn’t notice and said gently, “If Xiao Qi knew that Your Highness was so concerned about him, even personally coming to visit, he would be very happy. This old woman thanks Your Highness on his behalf.”

After speaking, she gave a formal curtsey to County Princess Fuyun—so polite, it was clear she didn’t regard her as a daughter-in-law at all, nor as her grandson’s legitimate mother.

County Princess Fuyun’s expression didn’t change, but under her wide sleeves, her hands involuntarily tightened. In the end, she couldn’t bring herself to say that she was Cui Ping’an’s legitimate mother and had every reason to visit. The one lying on the bed was nothing more than a bastard!

With this thought in mind, County Princess Fuyun changed the topic and said bluntly, “I am unaware of Ping’an’s condition, but I heard that female physician hasn’t yet left the estate. It would be just right to have her come explain the situation to me.”

Old Madam Cui’s expression subtly shifted. Her irritation at County Princess Fuyun’s relentless pestering grew immensely.

Meanwhile, in a room elsewhere in the courtyard, Mo Yan also heard the servant’s loud announcement. Not wanting to meet County Princess Fuyun, she pretended not to hear and continued discussing Cui Ping’an’s condition with Xue Tuanzi inside the space.

Mo Yan hadn’t expected that County Princess Fuyun was there precisely for her, and would not let her avoid the encounter so easily. So when the County Princess’s maid found her and summoned her to diagnose Cui Ping’an in front of County Princess Fuyun, one thought immediately surged in her mind: This visitor has bad intentions.

When Mo Yan appeared before County Princess Fuyun and offered a greeting with her name, she indeed saw a flash of surprise and coldness in the princess’s eyes.

County Princess Fuyun lazily looked over the young woman before her, who had been granted the title of County Princess by her royal brother, and felt increasingly shocked.

When she first heard that a lowborn farm girl had been granted a noble title for her contributions to high-yield rice, she thought it was just dumb luck and didn’t give it much thought. Later, when the girl was bestowed in marriage to the most promising young man in Great Chu, she again chalked it up to luck. But now, seeing her in person, she realized how wrong she had been.

No matter how good one’s luck, if the person was a pile of rotten mud, even if momentarily propped up on a wall, they’d fall off eventually under the sun and wind, only to be trampled. But this girl had clear, upright features and carried herself with grace—nothing like a lowly peasant girl. Perhaps she truly had some capabilities.

At this moment, County Princess Fuyun still didn’t know that her Crown Prince nephew’s recovery was all thanks to Mo Yan. Otherwise, the troubles that followed wouldn’t have happened.

“If this princess remembers correctly, you have no relation to the Cui family. I wonder why the old madam would seek you out,” County Princess Fuyun asked, looking at Mo Yan with a meaningful expression.

The Cui family women, who had their backs to the County Princess, visibly tensed and looked toward Mo Yan in worry. They had never mentioned the past grievances between County Princess Fuyun and Cui Ping’an to her, deeply afraid she might let something slip. If the County Princess learned that Cui Ping’an had spent that entire month under the Mo family’s protection, she would surely turn her hatred toward them.

Just as Old Madam Cui was about to speak, Mo Yan interrupted, “Replying to Your Highness, Hejia’s master runs a medical clinic in the city. Hejia often assists him there. Previously, my master was invited to treat Young Master Cui. Today, the old madam originally intended to have him return for a follow-up consultation, but unfortunately, he was occupied. So he briefed Hejia on the previous diagnosis and sent Hejia to take another look.”

Mo Yan’s instincts told her she mustn’t let County Princess Fuyun know that Cui Ping’an had stayed at her house during his month away. So she came up with this story on the spot. Besides, Physician Du had indeed been invited by the Cui family before, which she’d learned during previous chats with the Cui women. If needed, she could coordinate with him later. She wasn’t worried about the County Princess checking up on it.

(End of Chapter)

 Chapter 988: Confrontation (1)

Cui Ping'an's body had always been weak. Even though he was rescued from the icy lake in time, he still fell gravely ill and almost died.

At the time, the Cui Matriarch flew into a rage. She presented her token and entered the palace to request an audience with the Empress Dowager, asking her to punish the person who had harmed her grandson.

That culprit had ties to the royal family, but the fact remained that she had targeted an innocent four-year-old child. Such a ruthless act could not be excused. Not only would the Cui family never let it go, but anyone with a shred of decency privately voiced sympathy for the Cui family.

Back when Princess Fuyun had inserted herself into the marriage between Lord Cui and his original wife, leading to the latter’s demotion to concubine despite no wrongdoing, and ultimately her death during childbirth—these events had once stirred public outrage and brought disgrace to the royal family.

Just as those scandals were fading from public memory, Lord Cui’s only son nearly lost his life again, and this time at the hands of another royal. Emperor Hui'an knew that the Cui family would never back down quietly. He didn't want this to reach the court and tarnish the royal reputation further, nor could he tolerate someone so destructive to the royal name. So not long after, he personally issued a decree to severely punish the culprit.

Princess Fuyun was also implicated and was sternly scolded by the Empress Dowager in the palace, finally appeasing the Cui family’s fury and bringing the matter to a close.

Once Cui Ping'an recovered, the Cui Matriarch sent him to their estate in Yuancheng, in the south. The weather there was mild and suitable for recuperation. More importantly, it kept him out of Princess Fuyun’s sight, denying her any excuse to torment him.

Had Cui Ping'an not reached the age of eighteen and come to the time for marriage discussions, the Cui Matriarch wouldn't have brought him back to the capital. But who could have expected that what should have been a good thing would turn into such a disaster?

Princess Fuyun wished for nothing more than for this illegitimate child to disappear forever. He had been ill for days, and she hadn’t even sent a message of concern. For her to suddenly come in person to visit was truly baffling.

Even though the Cui women felt as if they were facing a great enemy and worried that the princess was up to something again, they had no right to stop her from entering.

Soon, Princess Fuyun, surrounded by a grand entourage of maids and nursemaids, strode into Cui Ping’an’s bedchamber with regal presence.

“We greet Your Highness!” The Cui Matriarch and Cui Qingrou stepped forward and respectfully saluted the princess.

Although the Cui Matriarch was technically Princess Fuyun’s mother-in-law, the princess was a royal of high status, and by etiquette, even the matriarch had to bow to her daughter-in-law whom she did not favor.

“Rise.” Princess Fuyun waved off their salute with a cool demeanor, not even bothering to return a junior’s courtesy to the Cui Matriarch.

The matriarch had never received a courtesy in return from her over the years, so she expected nothing different now. Her expression unchanged, she stood up and stepped back with Cui Qingrou to the bedside, saying nothing more to the princess.

Princess Fuyun paid it no mind and walked gracefully to the bedside. Looking at Cui Ping’an, who lay unconscious and seemingly beyond hope, a trace of cold light flickered in her eyes. She then asked, “I heard Mother invited a female physician from outside and even allowed her to enter through the main gate. She must be highly skilled to earn such favor. Did she say when Ping’an might wake up?”

The Cui Matriarch’s heart tightened. So that was her real purpose—under the pretense of concern, Princess Fuyun had come to investigate the identity of the female physician.

“In my desperation, I simply sought help wherever I could and had that female physician brought in. Her skills are quite ordinary, and she didn’t say when Ping’an might wake.” The matriarch knew full well the princess’s vengeful nature and didn’t want to drag Mo Yan into this. So she gave a half-truth and added, “As for her entering through the main gate, that must have been the gatekeeper’s oversight. I will reprimand them later—those servants mustn’t be allowed to break the manor’s rules.”

(End of Chapter)

 Princess Fuyun was indeed a rare beauty. Though she was already in her thirties, her skin remained fair and flawless, without a single wrinkle or blemish. Her features were refined and elegant, with a trace of sharpness between her brows. Dressed in a deep purple palace gown, she appeared regal and poised.

She cast an indifferent glance at the young maid kneeling below to greet her, but said nothing. Instead, she looked to the maidservant beside her.

The maidservant understood at once, lifted her chin slightly, and glanced at the young maid with contempt as she asked coldly, “What has happened over there?”

The young maid didn’t dare look up at her, and with her head bowed, she said in a small voice, “Another physician came today, but their carriage entered through the main gate. Later, that physician stayed in the Seventh Young Master’s courtyard for half an hour before leaving. Only then did I realize—it was a woman! I thought it seemed suspicious and came to report to Your Highness.”

A woman?

Surprise flashed across the maidservant’s face as she quickly looked toward Princess Fuyun.

Although female physicians were rare, they did exist. What was puzzling, however, was what kind of physician could enter the Cui Manor through the main gate? Even the imperial physicians from the palace entered through the side gate.

Princess Fuyun’s brows furrowed slightly. She personally asked the maid, “What did the woman look like? Did you find out her identity?”

The young maid was caught off guard that the princess addressed her directly and answered in a fluster, “R-Replying to Your Highness, that woman looked very young, with delicate and refined features. If she hadn’t been carrying a medical case, I wouldn’t have guessed she was a physician. But I couldn’t get close to the Seventh Young Master’s courtyard, and all the people around him are from the Old Madam’s side. I wasn’t able to find out who the female physician is.”

Princess Fuyun seemed thoughtful as she glanced at the maidservant beside her.

The maidservant immediately said, “If she entered through the main gate, either her medical skills are extraordinary, or her identity is unusual. There are a few female physicians in the capital, but none with exceptional reputation. However…”

She paused, and seeing the princess raise her brows slightly, continued, “Just because there’s no well-known female physician in the capital doesn’t mean there isn’t one elsewhere. Besides, I haven’t heard of any princesses or county princesses from other royal households studying medicine. This female physician must’ve been invited by the Old Madam from somewhere else!”

Princess Fuyun neither agreed nor disagreed, and asked the young maid again, “How was her medical skill? Has that bastard child woken up?”

The young maid shook her head quickly and said obsequiously, “Reporting to Your Highness, when I left, the Seventh Young Master—oh, I mean, that bastard—had not yet awakened. I vaguely heard the Old Madam crying inside. That bastard likely won’t make it.”

Princess Fuyun's expression remained unchanged, though a trace of delight flickered across her face. “Since that’s the case, I must go have a look. After all, I am his legitimate mother.”

The maidservant quickly flattered her, “Your Highness is magnanimous. If it were any other princess’s household, they wouldn’t even acknowledge a concubine-born child, let alone visit him!”

Princess Fuyun slowly stood, her bright red lips curving into a smile, though it was as sharp as a blade. “That bastard is my husband’s only son. Naturally, I must be attentive.”

The maidservant immediately lowered her head, not daring to speak further.

Everyone in the Cui household and even in the princess’s residence knew that the bastard child was a thorn in Her Highness’s side. If not for the fact that he had lived far away in the south for all these years, protected closely by the Old Madam, and that Her Highness still had to consider her husband’s position, he would likely have died long ago.

Any time the topic of offspring was brought up, even her closest maidservants dared not speak more in front of Princess Fuyun. It was known that in her nearly twenty years of marriage to the third master of the Cui family, she had borne no children.

Princess Fuyun changed into a bright red palace gown and, leading more than ten maidservants and mamas, made a grand entrance into Cui Ping’an’s courtyard.

The gatekeepers didn’t dare stop her at all and only shouted loudly, “Princess Fuyun has arrived!”

The shout clearly carried into Cui Ping’an’s bedroom, where the Old Madam and Cui Qingrou heard it plainly.

The Old Madam stood up and had a nearby maid straighten her clothes. A trace of mockery flickered in her eyes. “The Seventh has been sick for days, and she didn’t even send anyone to inquire. Now she’s come in person—has the sun risen from the west?”

Cui Qingrou glanced at her unconscious nephew on the bed and said worriedly, “Let’s hope she doesn't cause trouble for him while he’s sick.”

Her words weren’t without reason. Back when Princess Fuyun married into the Cui family, Cui Ping’an’s mother was already pregnant. Though she had to become a concubine, she remained deeply loved by the third master. He never cared for Princess Fuyun, and on the wedding night, no matter how others tried to persuade him, he didn’t go to the bridal chamber and stayed instead with Cui Ping’an’s mother.

That incident made Princess Fuyun, who already harbored jealousy, utterly despise her. The next morning, when Ping’an’s mother went to pay her respects, Princess Fuyun had prepared a kneeling cushion lined with nails. That time, Ping’an’s mother nearly miscarried.

And it wasn’t the only time. The third master had a quick temper, and Ping’an’s mother, afraid that conflict with Princess Fuyun would damage his career, never dared tell him.

Thus, she lived in constant fear, and her pregnancy went poorly. In the end, she suffered complications during labor and died from postpartum hemorrhage.

Even so, her death didn’t quench Princess Fuyun’s jealousy. On the contrary, because she had borne the third master’s first child, the princess turned all her resentment onto Cui Ping’an.

Although she hadn’t directly killed him, he constantly fell ill or met with minor accidents. On his fourth birthday, someone tried to curry favor with the princess by pushing him into a frozen lake in the dead of winter. That time, Cui Ping’an almost died…

(End of chapter)

 Chapter 986: Noticing Something Strange – County Princess Fuyun Has Arrived (3)

“Yanyan, if you want to know that brat’s past life, you could’ve just asked me. No need to wait for him to wake up,” came the chattering voice of Xue Tuanzi from within the space. Just moments ago, it had been desperate to speak, only to be blocked off by Mo Yan.

Mo Yan rubbed her temples and waved a hand. “Even if you tell me, you can’t relieve Cui Ping’an’s pain. So what’s the point?”

“Who says I can’t?” Xue Tuanzi huffed indignantly. “I could enter his dreams and erase his past-life memories. Problem solved!”

Mo Yan rolled her eyes, barely restraining herself from calling Xue Tuanzi an idiot. “If he forgets the past but still unconsciously follows the same path, and ends up creating another tragedy that ruins the rest of his life, wouldn't that be even worse?”

Xue Tuanzi was momentarily speechless. After a long while, it mumbled, “It… it might not turn out like that. He’s already in such a miserable state—would Old Madam Cui really still force him to do things he doesn’t want to do?”

Mo Yan shook her head. “Maybe she would, maybe she wouldn’t. Who knows? Either way, you’re not allowed to use dream magic on Cui Ping’an. If his current pain is something he brought upon himself, then maybe this is heaven’s punishment. If he’s been given another chance at life and still fails to learn or treasure it, then he doesn’t deserve happiness.”

Xue Tuanzi fell completely silent, but had to admit its master made a strong point. If that guy had done things right in his past life, there wouldn’t have been all the misery that followed. In the end, he had only himself to blame.

At that moment, no one noticed that in Cui Ping’an’s courtyard, a seemingly inconspicuous little maid slipped out with her head down, quickly making her way across a large portion of the Cui estate. She passed through a small moon gate and entered a grand courtyard that shared a wall with the Cui residence.

Unlike the low-key and restrained elegance of the Cui family’s home, this adjacent courtyard was adorned with carved beams and painted rafters, its eaves stretching high like the beaks of birds. It was lavish and majestic—entirely different in style from the Cui residence. If not for the connecting passage between the two, no one would assume this grand estate had anything to do with the Cui family.

In fact, technically speaking, this courtyard didn’t belong to the Cui family. It had been commissioned by order of Emperor Hui’an and built by the Ministry of Works. Its occupant was none other than the woman Old Madam Cui feared the most—County Princess Fuyun.

In Great Chu, princesses typically received a bestowed residence upon reaching fifteen and undergoing the hairpin ceremony. Favored princesses could have custom-built mansions, constructed according to their preferences by the Ministry of Works. Those less favored would have to move into previously reclaimed estates of deceased elder princesses after marriage, then live in the princess mansion with their consorts.

After marrying Cui Ping’an’s father, the third master of the Cui family, County Princess Fuyun should have moved into her designated princess mansion with him. However, she declined the princess mansion specially ordered for her by Emperor Hui’an, insisting on living with the Cui family after the wedding.

Concerned that his youngest sister might not be treated well, Emperor Hui’an ordered the Ministry of Works to build a mansion adjacent to the Cui residence—equal in scale and luxury to a princess mansion—and had a gate opened between the two courtyards. Although the grand estate didn’t carry a plaque proclaiming it as a Princess Mansion, everyone in the capital knew it essentially was. Even the Cui household referred to it as such.

This arrangement could be seen as a sign of respect toward County Princess Fuyun—or a sign that she was never truly accepted as one of the Cui family. After all, if she’d given up her own mansion to live with them, what had she been hoping to achieve?

After passing through layers of palace maid announcements, the little maid finally stood before County Princess Fuyun. That said, “stood before” was a stretch—she didn’t even dare to lift her head. Despite coming to the princess mansion countless times, she had never truly seen the princess’s face. All she knew was that she was a beauty—undoubtedly so—but one who had never earned the affection of Cui Third Master.

(End of chapter)

 Chapter 985: Noticing Something Strange – County Princess Fuyun Has Arrived (2)

During the most difficult days of his life, he had a little companion by his side. For him, that must have been an enormous comfort. Perhaps that young girl back then had played with him, slowly bringing joy into his life; perhaps she had cried with him, making him feel less alone; perhaps she had laughed with him, helping him forget his loneliness… Growing up together in innocence—even if it wasn't love, it would still be a touching bond of affection.

Xiao Qi's feelings for the girl named Fangcao likely went beyond affection developed over time. There must have been a layer of familial warmth mixed in. Emotions like that are the most resilient. How could they be so easily dismissed just because of a few disapproving words from his mother?

Unlike Old Madam Cui, Cui Qingrou used to visit the estate where Cui Ping’an lived before her separation. At the time, she had seen Fangcao several times and had a certain understanding of the girl’s character and conduct. She thought Fangcao was a simple and kindhearted girl, so she didn’t strongly object to her getting close to her nephew.

However, the disparity between their statuses was simply too great. It was acceptable for Fangcao to become a concubine, but it would be inappropriate for her to be the main wife—especially for families like theirs. A wife’s background being lower wasn't a big issue, but she at least needed to be educated, well-mannered, capable of handling social occasions, and able to uphold the family's reputation in public.

Fangcao had grown up in the countryside. Though she had learned some reading and writing with Xiao Qi, she was far from meeting the Cui family's standards. Her personality was also too simple and straightforward, making her ill-suited for life in a large, complex household. Even if she truly married Xiao Qi, she might not be happy. A life like that, dragged on long enough, would exhaust anyone.

After hearing what Mo Yan said, Old Madam Cui shed tears again. She held her grandson’s still slightly warm hand and muttered, “Child, just for the sake of one girl, you've done this to yourself? If you feel wronged, come at your grandmother with it—why torment your own body like this? Are you trying to force your grandmother to agree to let you marry that girl? If you like her so much, but you don’t wake up, how am I supposed to give you my blessing?”

Her words didn’t just move Cui Qingrou to tears, covering her mouth as she cried, but also struck a chord in Mo Yan. Regardless of whether Old Madam Cui had pressured Cui Ping’an or not, her intentions had always been good. Her feelings for her grandson were pure and unwavering.

Perhaps, in response to her words, Cui Ping’an—who had been in a deep sleep—slightly fluttered his eyelids, as if he was about to wake up.

Mo Yan noticed the change first and quickly leaned in, calling out, “Cui Ping’an! If you’re a man, if there are still people in this world you care about, if you truly like that girl Fangcao—then fight for it! Get better quickly! If you keep running away, you’ll never have another chance to be with her!”

Old Madam Cui and Cui Qingrou were immediately on edge, watching him closely. However, after just a slight flutter of his eyelids, Cui Ping’an fell still again. The three of them stared at him for a long time, but he still didn’t wake up.

Mo Yan was a little disappointed and said to the equally crestfallen mother and daughter, “Just go along with his thoughts and keep talking to him. He should be able to hear you. Once he sorts things out, he might wake up.”

The two women nodded repeatedly. They understood this was the only thing they could do for now—there were no other options.

Mo Yan then took Cui Ping’an’s pulse again. Finding it much steadier than before, she felt slightly more at ease. Right now, all they could do was wait for him to wake up. Only by uncovering the source of the pain tormenting his heart could they help him work through it and move on. If he didn’t wake and the fever kept returning, she would truly have no solution.

Still worried about Cui Ping’an, and seeing that it was still early, Mo Yan didn’t refuse the Cui family’s invitation to stay. She followed one of the household servants to a side room to rest and also lifted the barrier she had placed on Xue Tuanzi.

(End of chapter)

 Chapter 984: Noticing Something Strange – County Princess Fuyun Has Arrived (1)

After being reborn, Cui Ping’an instinctively resisted recalling anything from his previous life. It was as if only by doing so could he avoid facing the guilt and remorse buried in his heart for so many years.

However, deep down, a voice constantly reminded him that those tragedies had truly happened. What he was doing now was nothing more than deceiving himself! That day, a single sentence from Old Madam Cui had triggered the series of tragedies in his past life, forcing him to confront the mistakes he had once made.

He placed all the blame on himself, believing it was his own insatiable greed that had led to the death of the woman he loved, dragged his cousin into an unhappy marriage, and ultimately caused her early death. Two lives weighed heavily on his conscience—such things couldn't simply be forgotten because of one rebirth.

This illness had struck without warning and fiercely. It was rooted in Cui Ping’an’s refusal to confront the past, and his fear that he might once again tread the same path in this life without knowing how to change it. That deep sense of powerlessness gnawed at him, which was why he fell ill so suddenly, sinking deeper into the miseries of his previous life, unable to extricate himself.

In the past few days, the Cui family had sought help from over ten physicians, even summoning several imperial physicians from the palace. All of them diagnosed Cui Ping’an with a heart-borne ailment—one of the hardest to treat, requiring the patient to walk out of it on his own.

Cui Ping’an had been suffering from intermittent high fevers these days. Even a child knew that prolonged fever could damage the brain or even be life-threatening. The physicians and imperial physicians certainly knew this too, but the fever-reducing medicines they prescribed were practically taken like food, and yet had no effect at all. Sometimes, he would even vomit them up immediately after taking them, and the fever would worsen.

Yet Mo Yan had only fed him a small vial of some unknown medicinal liquid, and it calmed him down. He stopped muttering in his sleep, and his temperature gradually subsided. Just this one act was enough to earn the trust of Old Madam Cui and Cui Qingrou—they were convinced she would be able to cure their grandson (or nephew).

So, when Mo Yan asked what had happened after Cui Ping’an returned that day, Old Madam Cui hesitated only for a moment before revealing everything. In fact, she had been mulling over her words again and again ever since realizing her grandson’s illness was tied to a mental burden. She remembered clearly—it was right after she said she’d bring in that girl Fangcao and marry her off to the eldest grandson that Cui Ping’an’s condition began to change.

Over the past few days, Cui Ping’an had been repeatedly calling out those two names in his sleep, which further confirmed Old Madam Cui’s suspicions. However, no matter how hard she tried, she couldn’t figure out why that one sentence had triggered such an extreme reaction. It didn’t align with his usual temperament or behavior at all.

This was exactly what Mo Yan couldn’t figure out either.

Beside her, Cui Qingrou was just as puzzled. Watching Mo Yan probe cautiously, she asked, “County Princess, Ping’an stayed in your residence for a whole month—did he... did he ever say anything to you?”

Mo Yan thought for a moment, and suddenly recalled that day when Cui Ping’an had asked her whether she believed in past and present lives. At the time, she’d already suspected that he was reborn and had warned him not to casually reveal such a secret to others.

Looking at it now, he must indeed have been reborn. He hadn’t experienced any major hardships in this life, but his previous life might have been different. The way he constantly called out the name of the girl he loved and his cousin—perhaps the key to everything lay with those two people.

The more she thought about it, the more it seemed likely. But the matter itself was so fantastical that Mo Yan decided it would be better not to say it outright. So, she simply nodded at Cui Qingrou and said, “He often spoke of the days he spent at the southern estate. That girl named Fangcao was the one he mentioned the most.”

Hearing this, Cui Qingrou’s eyes turned red. She looked at the unconscious Cui Ping’an on the bed, unable to say a word.

A child only a few years old, sent to a distant estate thousands of miles away by his own family—even if it was unavoidable, even if his family never truly forgot about him—surely, his heart still harbored resentment, loneliness, and fear, didn’t it?

(End of chapter)

 Cui Ping'an suddenly fell ill in front of the Old Madam Cui. Even after consulting renowned physicians, none could do anything, so the old madam believed her grandson had been possessed. If it weren’t for the intervention of Master Cui, she would have gone to a Taoist temple to ask a priest to perform a ritual to save him.

“You wait here. I, the County Princess, will prepare and go with you,” Mo Yan said, furrowing her brows at the anxious maid before turning back to her own courtyard.

She was fully aware of her limitations—nowhere near the skill level of the imperial physicians in the Imperial Medical physicians. If even they couldn’t diagnose the illness, she was even less capable.

It had taken considerable effort just to nurse Cui Ping'an’s health back previously, so now all she could do was pin her hopes on the spiritual spring water, hoping it could bring down his fever. While she could have refused outright, since they had once known each other, even if she couldn’t help, she should at least visit.

After retrieving the spring water, Mo Yan hesitated for a moment before leaving the space. She used a small knife to cut a piece of black lingzhi and placed it into a jade box.

Previously, she’d traded a palm-sized piece of black lingzhi with the black clouded leopard for ginseng, then used some to detoxify Xiao Ruiyuan and Chu Heng. She also used some to stimulate the potential of the furballs. Though the black lingzhi was large and more than half remained, each use diminished it. Unless it was a matter of life and death, she wouldn’t take it out.

Since she didn’t know the exact condition of Cui Ping’an or whether it was life-threatening, she took the lingzhi as a precaution. If needed, it could save a life; if not, she could simply return it to the space—it wouldn’t spoil. She had no qualms about it.

Without further delay, Mo Yan exited the space with the spring water and lingzhi, changed clothes, and got into the Cui family’s carriage under the maid’s anxious urging, quickly heading toward the capital. When they arrived at the Cui residence, the carriage entered directly through the main gate.

Lately, many physicians had been coming and going from the residence, so although the servants found it odd that their young lady’s carriage entered through the main gate, they assumed it was another physician invited by the masters and didn’t dwell on it.

After getting off at the second gate, the maid led Mo Yan straight to Cui Ping'an’s courtyard. At this moment, he lay semi-conscious on the bed—his face flushed red, his lips dark and peeling, and he kept murmuring in pain. No matter how much the old madam and Cui Qingrou called him, he never opened his eyes.

Seeing the once lively and cheerful youth in such a state pained Mo Yan. She didn’t bother with formal greetings and hurried to the window to take his pulse.

The old madam, who had been weeping beside the bed, was startled when an unfamiliar girl suddenly approached. She didn’t react at first, but just as she was about to speak, Cui Qingrou stopped her, saying, “Mother, this young lady is the County Princess Hejia. She’s the one who helped treat Ping’an’s condition before.”

Upon hearing this, the old madam didn’t dare interrupt. She looked at Mo Yan with hope and without a trace of condescension due to her youth.

The room fell silent. No one dared speak, fearing they’d disturb Mo Yan as she took Cui Ping'an’s pulse.

After half a quarter-hour, Mo Yan finally withdrew her hand. Under the expectant gazes of the old madam and Cui Qingrou, she said nothing. Instead, she leaned closer to Cui Ping’an’s ear and heard him repeatedly muttering two words: “Fangcao” and “cousin.”

She recalled teasing Cui Ping'an before, when he’d blushed and spoken about his beloved Fangcao. It made sense that he would murmur his lover’s name while ill. But “cousin”? What was that about?

His condition clearly stemmed from emotional distress. If the cause wasn’t identified, how could a cure be found?

But right now, lowering his body temperature was the priority. Mo Yan took out a porcelain bottle from her medicine box and handed it to Cui Qingrou. “Madam, this is a fever-reducing potion I prepared. Please give this to him.”

Without hesitation, Cui Qingrou accepted the bottle and sat by the bed. With the help of a maid, she propped her nephew up and carefully poured the spring water into his mouth, not spilling a drop.

Mo Yan deeply appreciated this level of trust.

Though it was just a small bottle of water, Cui Ping’an was unconscious and difficult to feed. Cui Qingrou, worried that spilling it would affect its efficacy, fed him slowly and carefully. Though she had doubts about the clear, tasteless liquid, her trust in Mo Yan kept her from asking anything.

By the time the bottle was emptied, a full quarter-hour had passed.

As expected of the spiritual spring water, its effects appeared quickly—Cui Ping'an’s breathing gradually steadied, and he stopped murmuring. His peaceful expression now resembled that of someone asleep.

The old madam and Cui Qingrou noticed the change in their grandson (nephew) and finally felt a bit relieved. Their respect for Mo Yan’s medical skills grew immensely.

The old madam, overwhelmed with gratitude, stepped forward to bow to Mo Yan, only to be stopped in time.

“Saving lives is a healer’s duty, Madam. There's no need for this. But this is a matter of the heart. If we can't identify the source of the illness in his heart, I fear he won’t recover fully,” Mo Yan said sincerely.

(End of Chapter)